YOUNG carers will receive more support thanks to a new charter presented by Middlesbrough goalkeeper.

Boro stopper Jason Steele visited Ferryhill Town Council to present it with the Carer’s Charter.

The council has pledged to conform with the charter which offers more support to young carers.

It was introduced by campaign group Family Action who want to encourage more organisations to sign up.

Glenys Newby from Family Action said the council had recognised the pressure being put on young carers and wants to offer more help.

She said: “Although young carers can be very resilient and often see their role in the family as a positive one, caring can have a negative impact on their quality of life and their social opportunities.

“Staff and councillors at Ferryhill Town Council are developing their support for young carers and have an important role in making sure that young carers are given the opportunity to use Town Council facilities.”

Ms Newby spoke to councillors and staff as well as young residents of Ferryhill prior to awarding them with the charter.

She said it was the children who requested Middlesbrough number one Jason Steele, 23, from Newton Aycliffe, present the charter, adding: “We are absolutely delighted, it was so kind of him to give up his time.

“Hopefully his involvement will highlight young carers issues and raise more awareness and more importantly, more understanding.”